ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTIN NIGERIA, WEST AFRICA (2015- 2024)

Abstract

The study critically examined Artificial Intelligence and how it can effectively accelerate Sustainable Development in Nigeria. The specific objectives include; to evaluate how modern ICT technologies can be leveraged to bring about needed development; to identify the barriers to the application of Artificial Intelligence and to make recommendations to African leaders on how to get the best out of Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development. The study was anchored on the Diffusion of Innovations Theory by Everett M. Rogers in 1962 which provides a framework for understanding how new ideas, technologies or practices spread through cultures and social systems. The Population of the study was 40 which targeted stakeholders involved in the implementation and utilization of AI across various sectors while Purposive and Stratified Sampling Techniques were adopted for even selection of respondents. Data collection was both through primary and secondary sources. Simple table was used in the presentation of data while a combination of qualitative and quantitative data analysis were employed to interpret the collected data. The findings show massive support for digital health and educational technologies. Again, there is strong consensus on the need for better infrastructure and training emphasizing the importance of reliable internet and power supply. Despite optimism about technology's potential, challenges such as implementation costs and infrastructure limitations persist, indicating areas where support and development are needed. It was therefore recommended that African leaders should prioritize the development of clear policies and regulations to support AI innovation and invest in infrastructure to support AI growth.